Addiction Therapists in Banner Elk, NC

Photo of Dwane Wynne, MEd, LCMHCS
Dwane Wynne
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MEd, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Banner Elk, NC 28604
I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (license #S3106) with more than 30 years of training and experience working with adults and adolescents in the fields of mental health, employee assistance, vocational and psychosocial rehabilitation, and workplace training and consultation. I have extensive experience working with medical, psychological/emotional, substance abuse/chemical dependency, relationship, and career issues. I have been in private practice for 20 years. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor.
I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (license #S3106) with more than 30 years of training and experience working with adults and adolescents in the fields of mental health, employee assistance, vocational and psychosocial rehabilitation, and workplace training and consultation. I have extensive experience working with medical, psychological/emotional, substance abuse/chemical dependency, relationship, and career issues. I have been in private practice for 20 years. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor.
(828) 332-5392 View (828) 332-5392
Photo of Sierra Summerville, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sierra Summerville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Waitlist for new clients
It is important for you to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. I seek to provide a space of hope, non-judgment, and authenticity. I support individuals navigating a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationships. My primary populations are emerging and young adults; I work with people ages 14+. I am passionate about human rights, social justice, reproductive rights, and I am an LGBTQI+ ally. Through holistic person-centered empowerment, the individuals I work with take steps to grow, heal, and create a life worth living.
It is important for you to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. I seek to provide a space of hope, non-judgment, and authenticity. I support individuals navigating a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationships. My primary populations are emerging and young adults; I work with people ages 14+. I am passionate about human rights, social justice, reproductive rights, and I am an LGBTQI+ ally. Through holistic person-centered empowerment, the individuals I work with take steps to grow, heal, and create a life worth living.
(828) 382-8560 View (828) 382-8560
Photo of Mark J. Schwarze, PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS, NCC, CCS
Mark J. Schwarze
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS, NCC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Accepting New Clients. As a counselor I operate from a Person-centered approach. This means I will work hard to create a warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic space for us to do our work. I am interested in the way you think and conceptualize things and we can use a variety of approaches based on your specific needs. I will provide warmth and respect in our sessions.
Accepting New Clients. As a counselor I operate from a Person-centered approach. This means I will work hard to create a warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic space for us to do our work. I am interested in the way you think and conceptualize things and we can use a variety of approaches based on your specific needs. I will provide warmth and respect in our sessions.
(828) 374-9467 View (828) 374-9467
Photo of Jackie Belhumeur Wayne, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Jackie Belhumeur Wayne
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Banner Elk, NC 28604
If college is the best four years of your life, then why do you feel like this? Stressed and alone. Surrounded by people, but struggling to connect. Wanting love, but tired of the games and swiping. Scared of the real world, and still stuck with that vape habit and yoyo diet from high school. Or maybe you were so excited for parenthood, but not for this. This is so loud and hard and nothing like the pictures online. Life transitions - my favorites being college and parenthood - can shake you up and reveal cracks you never knew were there, but they can also shake you loose from your old habits so you can grow.
If college is the best four years of your life, then why do you feel like this? Stressed and alone. Surrounded by people, but struggling to connect. Wanting love, but tired of the games and swiping. Scared of the real world, and still stuck with that vape habit and yoyo diet from high school. Or maybe you were so excited for parenthood, but not for this. This is so loud and hard and nothing like the pictures online. Life transitions - my favorites being college and parenthood - can shake you up and reveal cracks you never knew were there, but they can also shake you loose from your old habits so you can grow.
(828) 527-0164 View (828) 527-0164
Photo of Melanie Keyes Frierson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Keyes Frierson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Currently Accepting New Clients! Are you feeling stuck, unsure how to move forward in life? Do you see yourself following the same unhealthy patterns with the same negative results? Are you ready to take the first step in creating a new, healthier life? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, I would like to have the opportunity to work with you.
Currently Accepting New Clients! Are you feeling stuck, unsure how to move forward in life? Do you see yourself following the same unhealthy patterns with the same negative results? Are you ready to take the first step in creating a new, healthier life? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, I would like to have the opportunity to work with you.
(828) 332-5696 View (828) 332-5696
Photo of Jake Keller, MA MMT, LMFT, MT-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jake Keller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA MMT, LMFT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Not accepting new clients
My experience includes addiction counseling, grief work, mens issues, couples counseling, trauma counseling, veteran-specific counseling, and working with adolescents on behavioral issues in their family system.
Sometimes we can feel as if on a mountaintop with a sense of clarity and other times in a valley unable to see the next step. Life is a journey with experiences and seasons where we can all use some help along the way. Whether it be marriage, dating, work, friendships, or family dynamics, relationships can be complex. Through life's complexities we can learn and grow. I believe everyone deserves to experience joy and live an abundant life. By living authentically to ourselves and others we can become the best version of ourselves. My desire is to meet you where you are and collaboratively work with you to reach your full potential.
My experience includes addiction counseling, grief work, mens issues, couples counseling, trauma counseling, veteran-specific counseling, and working with adolescents on behavioral issues in their family system.
Sometimes we can feel as if on a mountaintop with a sense of clarity and other times in a valley unable to see the next step. Life is a journey with experiences and seasons where we can all use some help along the way. Whether it be marriage, dating, work, friendships, or family dynamics, relationships can be complex. Through life's complexities we can learn and grow. I believe everyone deserves to experience joy and live an abundant life. By living authentically to ourselves and others we can become the best version of ourselves. My desire is to meet you where you are and collaboratively work with you to reach your full potential.
(828) 537-1457 View (828) 537-1457

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Andrea M Marsh - Mountain Lotus Therapy Services, LPC, LCAS, CSI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mountain Lotus Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
My specialty areas include substance use and/or dependency, transitions in life, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship, etc.
** Christian Counseling ** My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
My specialty areas include substance use and/or dependency, transitions in life, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship, etc.
** Christian Counseling ** My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
(828) 457-8757 View (828) 457-8757
Photo of Lucyna Sonek, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(828) 527-0143 View (828) 527-0143
Photo of Stephanie Freeman, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28608  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist licensed in North Carolina with over 9 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and compassionate. I believe in treating anyone with respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I am also trained and offer EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist licensed in North Carolina with over 9 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and compassionate. I believe in treating anyone with respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I am also trained and offer EMDR.
(252) 297-6106 View (252) 297-6106
Photo of Kristen Skulicz, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Skulicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I have been working in therapy, or mental health and addictions recovery, for the past 20 years. I enjoy working with adults who are going through a transition, change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. Some areas I specialize in include managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, bi-polar, past trauma, parenting struggles, pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders, relationship issues, coping with a loved one's mental health or addiction, and addictions recovery.
Hello, I have been working in therapy, or mental health and addictions recovery, for the past 20 years. I enjoy working with adults who are going through a transition, change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. Some areas I specialize in include managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, bi-polar, past trauma, parenting struggles, pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders, relationship issues, coping with a loved one's mental health or addiction, and addictions recovery.
(716) 271-5208 View (716) 271-5208
Photo of John McManus, LCAS, LCMHCA, NCC
John McManus
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCAS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blowing Rock, NC 28605
I primarily work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or addiction.
If you are looking for a relatable, down-to-earth therapist: I'm your person. If you like to laugh and get well at the same time: I'm definitely your person. Humor can be part of healing! Having been in therapy myself since age 10, I understand what it is to be depressed, anxious, and traumatized in ways that drain the color out of life and replace future excitement with a sense of hopelessness. It's an agonizing way to live. I have found ways to restore my passion for life, and I am eager to help you do the same! I'm here to collaborate with you on your path to healing- call me! I want to help people who are motivated to change.
I primarily work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or addiction.
If you are looking for a relatable, down-to-earth therapist: I'm your person. If you like to laugh and get well at the same time: I'm definitely your person. Humor can be part of healing! Having been in therapy myself since age 10, I understand what it is to be depressed, anxious, and traumatized in ways that drain the color out of life and replace future excitement with a sense of hopelessness. It's an agonizing way to live. I have found ways to restore my passion for life, and I am eager to help you do the same! I'm here to collaborate with you on your path to healing- call me! I want to help people who are motivated to change.
(828) 528-6164 View (828) 528-6164
Photo of Paul Joseph Daoust, NCC, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul Joseph Daoust
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
I work with children, adolescents and adults of all genders and am licensed to treat both mental health and substance use disorders. My focus is on whole person care, which takes into account factors about a person's biology, psychology and social context. When a person becomes more aware of themselves and others, it can often facilitate personal growths. I offer an emotionally safe atmosphere to assist clients in processing without fear of judgement.
I work with children, adolescents and adults of all genders and am licensed to treat both mental health and substance use disorders. My focus is on whole person care, which takes into account factors about a person's biology, psychology and social context. When a person becomes more aware of themselves and others, it can often facilitate personal growths. I offer an emotionally safe atmosphere to assist clients in processing without fear of judgement.
(828) 471-4714 View (828) 471-4714
Photo of Marissa Hall, MSW, LCSWA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28608
I have experience working with individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, and trauma.
You deserve a life filled with joy and inner peace, and that journey begins with truly understanding yourself and your story. Think of me as your guide to healing—I'm a person who's genuinely dedicated to your well-being. As someone who deeply understands trauma and shares the perspective of being a queer therapist, I offer a space where our shared experiences can foster connection and growth. Your experiences as a LGBTQIA+ or neurodivergent individual are welcomed here. Reaching out to a therapist can be intimidating but take a moment (and a deep breath) to reach out to me and see how I can help.
I have experience working with individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, and trauma.
You deserve a life filled with joy and inner peace, and that journey begins with truly understanding yourself and your story. Think of me as your guide to healing—I'm a person who's genuinely dedicated to your well-being. As someone who deeply understands trauma and shares the perspective of being a queer therapist, I offer a space where our shared experiences can foster connection and growth. Your experiences as a LGBTQIA+ or neurodivergent individual are welcomed here. Reaching out to a therapist can be intimidating but take a moment (and a deep breath) to reach out to me and see how I can help.
(980) 303-3460 View (980) 303-3460
Photo of Mel Falck, LCMHCA, Counselor
Mel Falck
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Some of the therapeutic interventions and modalities that I base my work on include trauma focused therapy through EMDR, substance abuse and addictions counseling, expressive arts therapy, mindfulness based approaches, and internal family systems theory.
I work with students, adults, couples, and veterans who are seeking respite and levity for whatever issues they may find themselves mired within. I believe that healing cannot occur in isolation and the role of therapist is to serve as a guide and confidant in the healing process. I will help you in discovering your own wellness touchstones that will assist in promoting your unique therapeutic needs.
Some of the therapeutic interventions and modalities that I base my work on include trauma focused therapy through EMDR, substance abuse and addictions counseling, expressive arts therapy, mindfulness based approaches, and internal family systems theory.
I work with students, adults, couples, and veterans who are seeking respite and levity for whatever issues they may find themselves mired within. I believe that healing cannot occur in isolation and the role of therapist is to serve as a guide and confidant in the healing process. I will help you in discovering your own wellness touchstones that will assist in promoting your unique therapeutic needs.
(828) 481-8207 View (828) 481-8207
Photo of Emily Capps - Broken Angel Counseling, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Broken Angel Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I believe there is no true beginning or end to Healing, working on ourselves, or trying to have forward motion in our lives (but that it DOES get better!), so any entry point into counseling as a tool in those processes is the right one. /"This is heart work, and you can't think your way around this; you've gotta feel your way through it." / /"The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind."/
I believe there is no true beginning or end to Healing, working on ourselves, or trying to have forward motion in our lives (but that it DOES get better!), so any entry point into counseling as a tool in those processes is the right one. /"This is heart work, and you can't think your way around this; you've gotta feel your way through it." / /"The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind."/
(828) 882-2904 View (828) 882-2904
Photo of Nichole Merritt Mcfarland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nichole Merritt Mcfarland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Over the past 9 years, I have provided counseling for individuals, students, families and couples. My licensure is in Marriage and Family Therapy, so I not only love to work with individuals, but with couples and families as well. I have a passion for helping couples strengthen and improve their marriages, as well as learn to work together as a team. I also enjoy working with individuals who are facing difficult or transitional times in their lives. I maintain an encouraging and supportive approach to help individuals identify their struggles and anxieties, as well as develop coping mechanisms to overcome the difficulties they are facing.
Over the past 9 years, I have provided counseling for individuals, students, families and couples. My licensure is in Marriage and Family Therapy, so I not only love to work with individuals, but with couples and families as well. I have a passion for helping couples strengthen and improve their marriages, as well as learn to work together as a team. I also enjoy working with individuals who are facing difficult or transitional times in their lives. I maintain an encouraging and supportive approach to help individuals identify their struggles and anxieties, as well as develop coping mechanisms to overcome the difficulties they are facing.
(919) 533-4719 View (919) 533-4719
Photo of John L Padgett - Living Hope Ministries, MA
Living Hope Ministries
MA
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Young man who is seeking a relationship with a young lady but having a hard time knowing how to pursue her and connect with her. We discuss what makes it hard for him to relate with a female. Then talk about how he sees himself and what his thoughts are about himself and the conclusions he has made. We work on learning to capture all those negatives thoughts and replace them with positive thoughts and the reality and truth about his life. Learn how to start a conversation with the opposite sex and develop better interpersonal skills as a young adult. Also, learn how to develop more self confidence, being assertive and decisive.
Young man who is seeking a relationship with a young lady but having a hard time knowing how to pursue her and connect with her. We discuss what makes it hard for him to relate with a female. Then talk about how he sees himself and what his thoughts are about himself and the conclusions he has made. We work on learning to capture all those negatives thoughts and replace them with positive thoughts and the reality and truth about his life. Learn how to start a conversation with the opposite sex and develop better interpersonal skills as a young adult. Also, learn how to develop more self confidence, being assertive and decisive.
(828) 457-8795 View (828) 457-8795
Photo of Carolyne Grizer, LCSWA, LCASA
Carolyne Grizer
LCSW Associate , LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Are you tired of feeling like life is an uphill battle? Are you struggling to get through each day, weighed down by feelings of low self-worth, sadness, or racing thoughts. Trying to focus and get through the day is hard. Even mundane tasks become arduous and you feel drained and exhausted! It's completely understandable if you're feeling overwhelmed right now and lack the motivation to move forward. The daily struggle with anxiety, depression, and stress is a complex one. You don't have to figure this out on your own! My ultimate goal is to help you gain a deeper understanding and ownership of your thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Are you tired of feeling like life is an uphill battle? Are you struggling to get through each day, weighed down by feelings of low self-worth, sadness, or racing thoughts. Trying to focus and get through the day is hard. Even mundane tasks become arduous and you feel drained and exhausted! It's completely understandable if you're feeling overwhelmed right now and lack the motivation to move forward. The daily struggle with anxiety, depression, and stress is a complex one. You don't have to figure this out on your own! My ultimate goal is to help you gain a deeper understanding and ownership of your thoughts, feelings, and actions.
(252) 486-5305 View (252) 486-5305
Photo of Lisbette R Lundgren, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisbette R Lundgren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28608
Over 15 years of practice. Working with people is a privilege & a humbling experience. I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, couples, and families. I concentrate on clients' strengths, and addressing dysfunctional thinking and behaviors that creates mental unrest. A great percentage of our happiness is felt in response to having healthy relationships. When we experience distress in relationships with others we feel a sense of betrayal and loss. In therapy, you will learn to identify and regulate feelings to communicate your needs in a non-defensive manner. It is my privilege to walk that journey with you.
Over 15 years of practice. Working with people is a privilege & a humbling experience. I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, couples, and families. I concentrate on clients' strengths, and addressing dysfunctional thinking and behaviors that creates mental unrest. A great percentage of our happiness is felt in response to having healthy relationships. When we experience distress in relationships with others we feel a sense of betrayal and loss. In therapy, you will learn to identify and regulate feelings to communicate your needs in a non-defensive manner. It is my privilege to walk that journey with you.
(828) 604-6569 View (828) 604-6569
Photo of James Foote, LCSW, LCAS, SEP, CTT, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Foote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, SEP, CTT, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hey, thanks for checking out my listing. If you're struggling with difficult emotions related to your past or feeling stuck in old patterns and trying to manage these issues has only created more problems, help is here for you. If you can relate don't hesitate to reach out. I won’t pretend to know exactly how you're feeling, but as a healer and fellow traveler on the path of wellness, I understand these challenges in a unique way. Contact me for a free unhurried consultation.
Hey, thanks for checking out my listing. If you're struggling with difficult emotions related to your past or feeling stuck in old patterns and trying to manage these issues has only created more problems, help is here for you. If you can relate don't hesitate to reach out. I won’t pretend to know exactly how you're feeling, but as a healer and fellow traveler on the path of wellness, I understand these challenges in a unique way. Contact me for a free unhurried consultation.
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See more therapy options for Banner Elk

Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.